California wild fires reach Bel-Air
Wild fires in California are now threatening the luxury homes of Los Angeles’ wealthy Bel-Air neighbourhood.
The Skirball Fire has quickly spread over 150 acres and has already destroyed several homes in this exclusive part of the city.
It is the latest wildfire in the state, which has already seen more than 200,000 people evacuated from their homes.
California’s fire service said fires have threatened 12,000 buildings, destroyed 150, and was only 5% contained.
Californian authorities have issued a purple alert, the highest level warning ever issued in the state.
The UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office has updated it travel advice, saying: "Three large wildfires in Ventura and Los Angeles County are actively destroying homes and other structures.
"Thousands are under mandatory evacuation orders. Several smaller fires have developed in the region and the fire risk remains extremely high. The fires are being exacerbated by dry conditions and sustained winds around 35-45 miles per hour, with gusts reaching 80 miles per hour.
"Under these conditions wildfires can spread swiftly, so you should remain cautious."
It told visitors to monitor local media reports and follow the advice of local law enforcement officials, including any evacuation orders.
Bev
Editor in chief Bev Fearis has been a travel journalist for 25 years. She started her career at Travel Weekly, where she became deputy news editor, before joining Business Traveller as deputy editor and launching the magazine’s website. She has also written travel features, news and expert comment for the Guardian, Observer, Times, Telegraph, Boundless and other consumer titles and was named one of the top 50 UK travel journalists by the Press Gazette.
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